Technical Areas of Research

The research of C-BER focuses on key environmental factors such as microgravity, radiation and other space travel-induced stress factors. We will investigate their additive, synergistic or antagonistic effects on living organisms. The research of C-BER closely aligns with Habitability and Environmental factors branch of the Space Life Sciences Division within the NASA Exploration Systems Mission Directorate; however, it is applicable to all of NASA's mission directorates.

Microgravity and Radiation Research thrusts will study effects of microgravity changes and radiation on the cell at the genome, proteome, cell, tissue, organ, and organism levels. Investigators will identify biomarkers of stress factors and develop countermeasures to the stress effects.

Microbial Research thrust will develop bioassays and devices for microbe detection and monitoring, building upon current hardware being developed at various NASA Centers.  Researchers will analyze the genome, proteome, and growth kinetics. Changes in the morphology and virulence of organisms due to space travel will be examined. In addition, novel approaches for controlling microorganisms in confined environments will be developed.

Bio-nanotechnology, Bioinformatic thrust will develop biosensors for pathogen and microbe detection as well as chemo-sensors of environmental stress.

Workforce development thrust will provide training opportunities for students,  postdoctoral fellows and faculty to develop their knowledge and skills.

Microbial Research thrust will develop bioassays and devices for microbe detection and monitoring, building upon current hardware being developed at various NASA Centers.  Researchers will analyze the genome, proteome, and growth kinetics. Changes in the morphology and virulence of organisms due to space travel will be examined. In addition, novel approaches for controlling microorganisms in confined environments will be developed.

Bio-nanotechnology, Bioinformatic thrust will develop biosensors for pathogen and microbe detection as well as chemo-sensors of environmental stress.

Workforce development thrust will provide training opportunities for students,  postdoctoral fellows and faculty to develop their knowledge and skills.